All the advantages of cork flooring lie in its composition and manufacturing principles. Most cork flooring is made in Portugal from cork oak. When the tree reaches 30 years of age, the top layer of bark is removed from it. The next procedure is carried out only after 10 years. The resulting raw material is crushed and thoroughly dried, then, using high temperature, dense multilayer cells are obtained from the bark, thanks to which the cork is elastic, waterproof and light.
Advantages and disadvantages of cork flooring
All types of cork flooring have the same advantages and disadvantages, which must be taken into account before purchasing. The advantages of this coating are obvious:
- Low level of thermal conductivity. Unlike many floor coverings, cork retains heat perfectly, with a thermal conductivity coefficient of up to 0.04. Cork flooring retains human warmth and is pleasant and comfortable to the touch. This advantage allows you to save on heating costs.
But it is important to remember that cork and the “warm floor” system are incompatible; the second one will simply be useless. The thermal insulation features of cork flooring distinguish it from linoleum, parquet, marble and other flooring materials.
- Environmentally friendly and beneficial for the human body. Only natural materials are used to make cork. It is also interesting that cork flooring can reduce the influence of geopathogenic zones. Orthopedic doctors have found that walking through traffic jams reduces the load on the legs and spine.
- Resistance to deformation. Those who have never encountered a cork floor believe that it is a fragile structure that is susceptible to any impact and cannot withstand heavy loads. Dents appear on the floor under the influence of furniture, but after rearrangement, the material quickly acquires its original appearance. The residual level of deformation does not exceed 0.2 mm.
- Anti-allergic and easy to care for. The cork does not require special complex care. If dust or dirt appears, the surface can be wiped with a damp cloth or vacuumed. Thanks to its anti-allergic qualities, cork flooring is an ideal option for those who suffer from allergies. That is why the material can often be found in medical institutions.
- Durability. Manufacturers of cork floors provide a guarantee on the material from 10 to 20 years, subject to compliance with operating rules.
- Slip resistance. If the protective layer is chosen correctly, slipping will be avoided. This is why cork flooring is installed in public places and on stairs.
- Soundproofing. Cork can absorb all sounds in a room. Sound absorption coefficient – 0.85. But it is important to remember that cork flooring absorbs only those sounds that occur in the room. The material does not absorb noise from outside.
But, despite all the positive qualities of cork flooring, it also has significant disadvantages:
- High price. This is one of the most significant disadvantages of cork flooring. If we take into account all the additional materials for installation, the price will differ slightly from the cost of parquet. 1 sq.m. an adhesive coating costs 400-1000 rubles, a floating one - 1000-1700 rubles. But the exact price depends on the type and thickness of the coating.
- Low level of mechanical strength. Despite its resistance to deformation, cork flooring is easy to damage. It remains scratched from the claws of pets, metal brushes, heels, etc. Cork will lose its perfect appearance and become dull when exposed to dirt and sand. Rubber and liquids leave dark stains that cannot be removed.
The only way out in this case is to be as careful as possible, not to walk on the cork floor in street shoes, and to lay a rug with a pile at the entrance to the house.
- Inability to withstand excess moisture. Although cork is moisture resistant, it swells and deforms when exposed to excess moisture. The floor may swell, so manufacturers do not recommend using cork in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Strict requirements for the foundation. In order for the cork floor to last a long time and not lose its ideal appearance, before laying it you need to prepare the base as thoroughly as possible. It should be as smooth, clean and dry as possible. If this rule is not followed, the floor will quickly become unusable.
- Unpleasant odor from glue and varnish during floor installation. During the installation process, products are used that have an unpleasant, pungent odor. Even if the work is carried out in the bathroom or toilet, the unbearable smell will be throughout the apartment. In summer, the room can be constantly ventilated, but in winter you will have to leave home for several days. When working with glue, under no circumstances should it come into contact with fire! The product is flammable!
- Problems with choosing a protective layer. Cork is a rough material that needs to be covered with a protective layer on top. Choosing products is not always easy: a coating with a low coefficient of friction will make the floor slippery, while a coating with a high coefficient will wear off socks and the soles of sneakers.
- Fading and loss of color due to sun exposure. Sunlight is another enemy of cork flooring. Over time, the material will change color, fade and become unattractive.
Cork is a new flooring product. Today, controversy surrounding the advantages and weaknesses of this material continues. It is exotic and expensive. Why is cork better than laminate? Is it possible to lay cork floors in the kitchen and bathroom? Let's analyze the situation from different angles.
What it is?
Cork flooring is an environmentally friendly material, for the production of which the top layer of cork oak bark is used. This is a unique natural raw material: cork oak groves are found only in Europe. The method of removing the bark has non-standard specifics. The process requires exclusively manual labor. The task is carried out by virtuoso masters: careful and targeted actions are required to separate the top layer of bark from its mass, without causing harm to the tree itself.
Only thirty-year-old oaks (not younger) are used as donor trees. If the top layer is carefully cut off using technology, the bark continues to grow, and in 6 years it will replenish its reserves for a new portion of material. The natural harvest obtained from the tree is processed into cork slabs. They are the basis for creating a new floor.
The environmental friendliness of the slabs is guaranteed by their production. The bark is crushed and passed through heating in ovens for special processing. Then the resulting mass is compressed. Under pressure, the particles of wood cork are combined, creating a unique texture that looks like a honeycomb.
This is a fairly strong substance impregnated with air bubbles (suberin). To make the cork flooring material stronger and more practical, a second layer of suberin is added during production. Making a cork floor is an interesting design solution for decorating an apartment or house.
Natural cork has a beneficial effect on the human musculoskeletal system and nervous system.
Coating features
Experts talk about a number of features of cork plates. Solid veneer is an expensive type of cork. Cork agglomerate is more affordable. This is crumbs compressed at high temperatures. It contains any small pieces of material. There is also a compromise option - large veneer mixed with agglomerate. In terms of mechanical properties, the expensive and budget options are practically the same. Differences exist in appearance.
The highest characteristics are inherent in cork coatings of class 33. Their properties consist in the presence of different bases, but equally effective wear resistance. The hygiene and environmental friendliness of such material are guaranteed by the manufacturers. Class 33 cork laminate is considered the best. It assembles perfectly, has several layers in composition: first balancing, then shock-absorbing, moisture-resistant and a layer of natural cork 3 mm thick.
This is a 100% natural material, high-quality cork veneer, which plays a decorative and artistic role. Class 33 floors cannot be damaged by the claws of domestic animals, dropped knives or even axes. It is restored if, after moving the cabinet, dents from the legs remain in the floor.
Doctors advise sitting on such a floor: how much of the healing effect is conveyed by the natural covering.
Kinds
The main types of cork flooring are as follows:
- Rolls made of technical cork. On the market this material can be purchased by the meter. It is used primarily as a substrate for floor insulation.
- Cork tiles. The product is used for gluing when installing floor coverings. The adhesive sizes are different: square tiles are 300x300 or 450x450 mm, rectangular tiles are 600x300, 450x150 mm. When forming a floor, the variety of tile shapes makes it possible to lay out various patterns and ornaments.
- Cork parquet. This flooring is sometimes called a floating floor. It has an MDF base with cork glued to it. Its size is 900x185 mm, the slabs look similar to laminate, but the texture of the material is completely different, natural. They are also secured with locks.
Cork finishing material is divided into several main groups: sprayed, tiled; liquid.
The tile cork covering provides operation for up to 40 years. It is resistant to aggressive substances and is easy to install. Tiles with a thickness of 6 mm are offered for installation; now manufacturers sell thinner ones (4 mm), but thin tiles are much more difficult when decorating the floor. It is better to apply it on a board or sheets of wood.
Liquid coating is an innovation in finishing that has recently appeared on the market. It is easy to install: the technology is similar to conventional painting. In its finished dry form, the liquid coating looks like a porous and at the same time dense surface. In the interior, it differs little from tiles; it looks elegant and prestigious. Spray coating differs from liquid coating in the method of application. This work is performed with a gun or compressor; it is better to entrust it to professional craftsmen. Various companies also offer larger pieces for work (cork panels), which allow you to quickly update a large floor area.
Advantages and disadvantages
Cork flooring has many undeniable advantages. Despite the fact that its price is higher than that of common laminate, This is a profitable and useful material:
- Cork is environmentally friendly. The material itself, as well as the process of its production, is natural.
- The coating has high antistatic characteristics. The surface is not covered with dust, which is important for people prone to allergies.
- Cork does not release toxic substances when heated. Fungus does not form on it, so a cork floor would be appropriate in a bathroom.
- Valuable quality - high sound insulation. Cork covers dampen noise on the ceiling, walls and floor. If something falls on such a floor, the ringing and rumble is practically inaudible, which is why cork cladding is used in recording studios.
- Cork floors have good thermal conductivity. No one can deny themselves the pleasure of walking on such a floor barefoot. There is a feeling that a “warm floor” system is installed under the plug. The elastic cork seems to spring back when walking, reducing overall stress on the body.
- To install cork slabs or a package, no special skills are required. This is a fairly simple and inexpensive procedure.
Minuses
To be fair, the shortcomings must also be mentioned. The first of them is the high cost of the product. Even an adhesive cork covering is more expensive than a castle covering, not to mention the cork veneer option. Cork is quite susceptible to water. To achieve good moisture resistance, it will be necessary to complicate and increase the cost of the process: install wax impregnation.
Fatal drawback - fire hazard. To install an adhesive cork floor, like any cork flooring, you will need a perfectly flat surface. Cork is susceptible to direct sunlight. With bright and constant exposure to the sun, the coating and decorative patterns on it fade.
Hard and sharp debris can be pressed into the plug.
photos
Colors
Anticipating the conversation about the colors of cork, we note that in Russia a somewhat derogatory attitude towards cork has taken root, although the trend is gradually changing, opinions are in favor of the natural material. In interior decoration of modest and presentable apartments, cork covering is 100% justified. Depending on the functionality, colors may vary.
In the kitchen, for example, a warm, natural yellowish color looks original. A brown cork floor or an ocher shade harmonizes with the decor. If you have light-colored furniture, you can lay down white cork. Cream and beige tones visually enlarge the space and emphasize the cleanliness of the room.
Keep in mind that cork flooring takes on additional color shades based on how it is lit, what panels or curtains are reflected in it, and how the covering is laid.
Manufacturers today are promoting cork interspersed with interesting textures for design, using the most unusual shades. The top layer can be made in any color palette; it is suitable for sophisticated design solutions. Modern technologies make it possible to use photo printing in the design of slabs and plates. This way your photo parquet and photo floor will become spatial and bright.
Owners of areas with cork flooring are still more attracted by stylization with a natural texture. They like cork that imitates pine, oak, cherry, birch, and alder. Supporters of exoticism allow themselves rare options: American walnut, rosewood. Depending on the chosen shade of cork plates, the coating takes on the colors of stone, sand, and pebbles.
How to choose?
When choosing, pay attention to the country of origin. Having an alternative, for example, choosing between Portuguese or Chinese cork, experts advise giving preference to the first, since it is of better quality. Cork from Portugal is denser, it contains a higher percentage of suberin, does not carry risks, that soon there will be cracks along it. If this is an adhesive option, the qualities of the varnish and glue that are used to create the coating are important.
When purchasing a floating floor for your kitchen, it is important to consider what kind of “weather” you have in your home. If your kitchen has more shade, consider having a moisture-resistant interlocking coating between the tiles. If the kitchen is sunny, opt for a tinted finish to prevent the cork from losing color when exposed to direct sunlight. It is more practical to put a dark cork floor on the balcony. It is better to decorate the children's room and bedroom with light.
Adhesive boards are approximately half the price of their locking counterparts. When purchasing glue and varnish, you need to add another third of the cost of the material to the adhesive version. Installation of an adhesive floor is twice as expensive as a floating one. So in total the difference will be insignificant. If we are talking about designer tiles, this pleasure is expensive: 1 sq. m of finished coating can cost several thousand rubles.
Tiles from manufacturers Wicanders, Corksribas, Baumtex, Ibercork are considered to be of good quality.
The text discusses in detail this type of material, such as cork flooring. From the article you can find out what this type of finishing is, what properties and characteristics it has, and also evaluate the feasibility of using natural coating in the interior by studying its advantages and disadvantages, consumer reviews, average prices and other factors.
Cork flooring is made from porous oak bark. The extraction of this material does not have a negative impact on the environment. The place where the bark was cut continues to grow and renew itself, which allows this procedure to be performed every 9 years without threatening the condition of the tree. For the production of flooring, raw materials from 25-year-old oak trees are used. Younger trees are not suitable for this. The most valuable bark is considered to be cut from 150-year-old oak trees.
A mixture consisting of pressed bark is used as a base for the coating. As a result of special treatment inside the furnace, the material is saturated with air. In this case, natural juice contained in micropores is used. It's called suberin. At the next stage, the material is given strength. For the so-called reinforcement, resins and wood dust are used, which are added in several layers.
The finishing layer is made of cork or other materials, such as veneer or polyvinyl chloride. The scope of application of the floors, as well as their service life, depend on the properties and characteristics of the top coating.
To protect the coating from wear and tear, as well as to give it a specific design, manufacturers use veneer in combination with cladding with other materials:
- veneer - the thickness of the layer is only 0.5 mm. The coating is applied over the base using an adhesive composition;
- veneer coated with varnish for cork flooring - the varnish composition increases the service life of the finish, which is ideal for living rooms, including bedrooms;
- veneer covered with a protective vinyl film - it prevents scratches and also prevents moisture from entering the material. Thanks to this, the manufacturer's warranty extends for 10 years;
- veneer made from valuable wood species and covered with vinyl film - the material is a veneer of natural origin, made from expensive wood species. For protection, it is covered with a layer of vinyl.
Note! Thanks to modern technology, consumers can buy cork flooring in any design. The photo printing method allows you to apply a realistic imitation of grass, wood, sand, stone, etc. to the surface of the material.
Cork flooring: advantages of the material
Cork used as flooring has many beneficial properties. This finishing material is lightweight compared to other types of coatings. Cork is characterized by sound impermeability. The material does not allow noise to pass through, so it is suitable even for recording studios. At the same time, the finishing has a low level of thermal conductivity, due to which the heat of the room does not go into the floor, but is stored inside.
The surface of the cork is elastic and soft. Orthopedic specialists recommend using this type of finishing for people with diseases of the musculoskeletal system, as well as as a covering in children's rooms. Cork is safe and environmentally friendly. Its surface does not slip, does not absorb liquids and does not emit harmful substances. In addition, the material has antistatic properties. Cork does not require complex care and perfectly repels dust.
The coating is resistant to liquids and chemicals. The exception is caustic solutions of alkaline origin. The cork does not interfere with natural air circulation. Thanks to this, the material does not contribute to the growth of bacteria and the exacerbation of allergic reactions in residents of the house. Cork is not subject to rotting. She is not afraid of moisture. If the floors in the house get wet as a result of flooding, the coating will not deteriorate under the influence of the liquid, provided that the surface has a protective treatment.
Cork is not afraid of temperature changes and is not subject to fading in the sun. Unlike laminate, this material can be laid on open loggias and balconies. This type of coating is very strong and durable. Thanks to its porous structure, the material reduces the level of friction, therefore reducing the aggressiveness of external factors.
Cons of cork floors
Like any other type of covering, cork floors have both advantages and disadvantages. Due to its softness, the coating is pressed down over time under the weight of furniture. Especially for bathrooms, manufacturers produce slabs whose thickness is 1-1.2 cm. The size of such products is 14.8x14.8 cm. If the coating in the bathroom is less thick, there is a possibility that the bath will pierce through it.
You should not walk indoors wearing shoes with rubber soles or high heels, otherwise marks will remain on the surface of the coating. Also, do not place latex or rubber mats on the floor. The trace of these products after a long stay is practically not removed.
Helpful advice! Potholes left by chair legs and light furniture will correct themselves. For heavy furnishings, it is advisable to buy soft felt pads that will reduce pressure.
Significant disadvantages include the price of cork flooring. Moreover, the adhesive type of coating will cost much more than a cork laminate. On the other hand, due to the simplified installation system of the interlocking plates, the costs of purchasing the material are partially offset. As a result, the total cost of the coating will be lower than that of natural parquet.
Another disadvantage of cork is its flammability. The material itself is not flammable. The flammable component of floors is its protective coatings, for example, paint, varnish, glue. Natural coating has a low level of resistance to moisture. This deficiency can be eliminated using varnish, sealant or wax impregnation.
Some coating options (for example, adhesive-type floors) have a complex installation system. Only specialists can ensure high-quality performance of such work. In addition, it is impossible to install a heated floor system under a cork floor. The material has a high degree of thermal insulation, so heat flows will not be able to enter the room.
Pros and cons of cork floors, photos, prices for various types of coverings
Manufacturers produce three types of cork that are used as flooring:
- solid veneer - the material consists of solid pieces of tree bark (this type of finishing has a high price and is used for decorating ceiling and wall surfaces, as well as niches);
- glomerate - the material has the form of sheets consisting of crushed bark, joined together by gluing (this type of finishing is practical and affordable);
- combined cork - consists of agglomerate and veneer, they are glued together under high pressure.
To produce combined cork, veneer is used, which is not suitable for making slabs. As a result, the finish acquires a decorative appearance and beautiful texture. Combined cork goes well with other materials.
The following types of coatings are distinguished:
- Floating or interlocking floor.
- Glue floor.
- Technical jam.
They have different properties and are characterized by a specific scope of application.
Features of cork tiles for interlocking floors
A floating floor consists of slabs connected to each other using interlocking joints. The thickness of these panels varies between 10.5-12 mm. The tile size is 18.5x90 cm. The finishing is laid in the same way as regular laminate.
Crushed chips are used to make the base of these slabs. Wood or cork is used as a finishing coating, which is covered with a layer of paint and a printed image. It is advisable to use this type of finishing in well-heated rooms where there are no temperature changes. Sudden changes can negatively affect the condition of the locking joints.
Important! When purchasing slabs, you should definitely pay attention to the quality of the locking connections. The integrity of the coating and its durability depend on them.
It is not recommended to use cork floating floors in high traffic areas, such as walk-in hallways or kitchens. The coating installation system is quite simple. If one of the fragments is damaged during operation, the whole row will have to be disassembled. The area from the wall to the place where the defective element is located is subject to dismantling.
Parameters influencing the choice. Properties of various materials. Features of the floor in different rooms. Additional floor modifications.
Cost of floating cork floors: price per meter of finishing
The leading producers and suppliers of cork are Spain and Portugal, where porous oaks are widespread. Products from Asian countries are in lower demand, since the climatic conditions of this region do not allow the cultivation of high quality wood.
Average cost of 1 m² of Wicanders floating cork floors:
| Collection name | Price, rub./m² |
| Originals | 1650 |
| Identity | 2150 |
| Personality | 2150 |
| Cork Veneers | 2220 |
| Character | 2280 |
| Lynn | 2390 |
| Cork Plank | 2450 |
| Homecork | 2490 |
| Artcomfort Wood | 2500 |
| Artcomfort Stone | 2550 |
Features and technical characteristics of adhesive cork floors
The adhesive floor consists of cork panels with an additional protective coating. The thickness of these elements is 4-6 mm. The material has a two-layer structure. At the bottom there is pressed cork chips, and the finishing layer on the panels is veneer. The elements can be either rectangular (60x30 and 45x15 cm) or square (40x40 and 30x30 cm). This type of coating is suitable for rooms with high levels of air humidity, such as the bathroom and kitchen.
Before installation, you need to carefully prepare the surface. The base for installation of the coating must be perfectly level. Glue is used to fix the panels. In order for the result of laying the coating to be high-quality and durable, all elements must be carefully adjusted. Backlashes are not allowed.
Using this material, you can create decorative ornaments and patterns on the floor. When installation is completed, the cork is coated with a polyurethane-based varnish in several layers. It is necessary to process the gaps between the modular elements.
Helpful advice! If one of the fragments is damaged, there is no need to dismantle the entire coating. It is enough to cut out the damaged strip and replace it with a new one.
Average cost of adhesive cork floors: price per m2
The main criterion for choosing a floor covering is the manufacturer. The following manufacturers are considered the most popular and best on the market:
- Wicanders;
- Corkstyle;
- Allied Cork.
Average price of cork flooring Wicanders:
| Collection name | Price, rub./m² |
| Cork Parquet | 1230 |
| Eco Cork | 1340 |
| Crackle | 1400 |
| Nuances | 2000 |
| Personality | 2050 |
| Identity | 2050 |
| Exotic | 3700 |
What is the purpose of placing technical cork on the floor?
Technical cork is made from production residues. Therefore, it is not used as a finishing finish for floors. The main function of this material is to eliminate defects by backfilling (granules) or preparing the surface for laying laminate. In the second case, the cork sheet is used as a substrate that levels the base.
Technical material is available in several forms:
- Granules.
- Rolls.
- Plates.
In addition, technical material is used to create additional sound and thermal insulation.
Cost of technical plug:
| Form | Size, cm | Material thickness, mm | Price, rub./m² |
| Roll | 100x1000 | 2 | 104 |
| 3 | 163 | ||
| 100x2500 | 4 | 235 | |
| Plate | 91.5x61 | 4 | 323 |
| 6 | 464 | ||
| 8 | 547 | ||
| 10 | 666 |
Which is better to buy a cork floor: adhesive or floating?
Adhesive and interlocking floors differ from each other not only in their structure, but also in their properties.
The adhesive floor panel consists of the following components:
- bases made of compressed agglomerate obtained by gluing;
- wood veneer as a decorative covering;
- a thin layer of varnish or protective vinyl coating that gives the panel a matte or glossy surface.
Advantages of adhesive coating:
- It is not afraid of the influence of humidity and temperature changes, as well as contact with water.
- Installation in rooms with high humidity levels or lack of heating is allowed.
- The material is easy to cut, which facilitates the installation system.
- An extensive selection of design solutions (the coating can not only be tinted, but also mosaic designs can be created based on it).
- There is no need to use thresholds in the joint areas between the cork floor and the base covered with parquet or tiles.
Disadvantages of adhesive coating:
- Installation requires careful preparation of the base. Any differences in the surface will be noticeable after laying the coating.
- Requires purchase of varnish and glue.
- Only specialists can do high-quality installation of the coating.
Note! The price of interlocking cork floors is significantly higher than adhesive floors. However, installation of the latter requires the participation of specialists and the purchase of additional materials, which causes the total cost of the coating to increase significantly.
The lock plug consists of:
- pressed agglomerate;
- HDF or MDF fiberboard, equipped with mounting tongues and grooves;
- protective layer of agglomerate;
- veneer finish;
- protective layer of vinyl film or varnish coating.
Advantages of castle floors:
- There is no need to cut material. No varnish or glue is required for installation.
- It is not necessary to carefully level the base. A height difference of 2 mm per 2 m of surface is allowed.
- A simple installation system allows you to install the cork yourself without the help of specialists.
- The material can be dismantled and reused in another room.
Locking plates are not afraid of high air humidity, but provided that this indicator, like the temperature, is constant. The coating can withstand contact with water for no more than 24 hours. After this, it is necessary to dismantle the floors and dry its elements.
Choosing cork floors: owner reviews, pros and cons
When choosing a finish for floors, you should pay attention to the quality of the cork agglomerate. Some manufacturers, in order to reduce production costs, add cheap impurities, such as shavings, to this layer. As a result, the material becomes tough and wears out faster. For this reason, you should give preference to clean products, even if it is compressed cork and its cost will be high.
Adhesive floors have their disadvantages. Even products from quality manufacturers may have minor defects. Most often, there are dimensional errors, which is why the planks have different sizes. As a rule, they are small and amount to 1 mm in length or width. This indicator is considered normal, since due to the elasticity of the material, this deficiency is compensated for during installation: the panels are compressed and the joints are tight. Sometimes you come across planks with different thicknesses. This defect brings much more problems.
Helpful advice! If the batch contains planks with different thicknesses, the material will have to be re-sorted. It is better to place thin elements in places where the transition will not be so noticeable. Thick ones can be corrected by removing excess thickness around the edges using sandpaper.
Since cork is a natural material, defects such as depressions, unsightly color transitions, and manufacturing defects (detamination of veneer or its partial absence) are often found on the surface. Before proceeding with installation, you should carefully inspect the material, glue the peeled areas, and place the defective strips where they will not be so noticeable. Castle floors are more advantageous in this regard, because the protective coating hides all imperfections.
Considerable importance is given to consumer reviews when choosing cork flooring. The opinion of buyers who have already tried this type of finishing can be informative and decisive.
Strengths and weaknesses of cork floors: customer reviews
Cork cladding is not as popular as other types of finishes that are already well known to buyers. Those consumers who nevertheless took the risk of purchasing this material share reviews about cork laminate on forums.
“We initially considered laminate flooring but found it too noisy and slippery. We have a dog living in our apartment. I don’t want to listen to the constant clicking of claws. We couldn't afford parquet. Therefore, we decided to take a closer look at cork covering. The material, of course, was more expensive than laminate, but its high price was outweighed by numerous advantages. The coating turned out to be soft and quiet, and most importantly, warm. They installed the cork on the floor themselves, without calling a professional to the house. I was captivated by the naturalness and environmental friendliness of this material. I don’t regret my purchase at all and recommend it to everyone. You simply cannot find a more comfortable finish.”
Svetlana Ezhova, Moscow
“I am of two minds about cork floors. The material really has many useful properties. This is beauty, naturalness, and the ability to retain heat. On the other hand, it cannot be called practical. Water causes cork to swell, so the seams between the slabs may swell. I also cannot recommend this coating to those who have children in the house, because the surface of the cork is very sensitive to damage. The material requires careful handling. If you're willing to take proper care of it, cork won't disappoint."
Maria Korotaeva, St. Petersburg
What cork floors look like in the interior: photo
The use of this coating in the interior can be varied. In the photo, cork floors look prestigious and original, especially in the living room, bedroom and study. Use in a children's room is allowed, but subject to careful handling. The coating can be made in natural colors (natural) or painted in any shade of the palette.
The most common natural colors:
- yellow;
- ocher;
- light brown;
- red-brown;
- mustard, etc.
Note! When choosing the color of the future coating, you must take into account the design and colors of the furniture.
Is it possible to use cork floors in the bathroom and kitchen?
In any premises where the microclimate involves a constant change in temperature, the cork will deteriorate and crumble. Such rooms include not only the kitchen, but also the bathroom, which is also characterized by a high level of humidity. Temperature changes provoke the appearance of cracks in the coating. As a result, water begins to seep into the cork, causing the coating to peel off. It is also not recommended to use cork on the balcony and in the hallway.
Problem areas are usually hidden from view:
- under the bath;
- behind the baseboard;
- under the sink;
- under the washing machine;
- behind floor furniture.
It is in these zones that water vapor settles and condenses, destroying the coating. As an alternative, a quality waterproof varnish can be used to protect cork floors in your kitchen or bathroom. However, it does not prevent the appearance of mucus blisters. Under the influence of humidity, they appear under the top layer of coating and spoil its appearance. In addition, cork does not have antiseptic properties, so a microbiological environment can form under it.
Experts do not recommend using cork in the bathroom. In terms of microclimate, the kitchen has more gentle conditions, although even there the floor will be subjected to serious tests - constant pollution, spilled liquids (juices, coffee, tea), etc.
How to install cork flooring in slab form
Cork reacts sensitively to moisture levels, shrinking and expanding depending on room conditions. Therefore, before starting work, it is advisable to keep the package of material for several days in the room where it will be installed. During this time, the humidity level stabilizes. As a substrate for the coating, you can use a technical roll cork. The optimal thickness of this material is 2-3 mm. You should move 1.5 cm away from the wall. The technical plug is laid on a waterproof film on top of the concrete screed.
Installation of the first row begins from the wall, which is located opposite the entrance door, with a 5 mm indentation. If the material needs cutting, the cut is made on the side where the ridge is located. The groove cannot be touched. To cut the cork, it is advisable to use a circular saw or an electric jigsaw. It is better to refuse hand tools, otherwise the cork will crumble. The second row is set with an offset of half the tile. To adjust the elements, use a wedge (cork) and a rubber hammer.
Important! Be sure to leave a space of 1-2 cm from the wall. Like any natural material, cork undergoes deformation changes, so you need to leave a small space for expansion.
After this, the coating is treated with several layers of varnish. The composition can be matte or glossy. The joint area near the wall is masked using wooden baseboards.
How to properly install adhesive cork floors
Before work, the material must be sorted, selecting finer elements. Thick planks must be sanded using sandpaper. The coating is laid on a base in the form of a concrete screed. It is permissible to install cork on old linoleum, but provided that its surface is free of swelling and damage. The main thing is that the surface is flat, smooth, and free of dirt and debris. To level the base, you can use moisture-resistant plywood or fiberboard.
If there are slight differences in the surface, it is advisable to apply a layer of primer. It will not only eliminate minor irregularities, but also increase the adhesion of materials. The recommended indoor humidity level is 65%, and the temperature is at least 18°C.
In this case, installation work should begin from the middle of the room. To simplify the process of laying the coating, it is advisable to apply markings to the surface of the base. A cord is suitable for this. According to the instructions, the adhesive composition is prepared. It is applied to the surface of the slabs using a roller. After this, the element is pressed tightly against the base, previously lubricated with glue. To apply the composition you need to use a spatula with fine teeth.
Excess glue must be removed immediately. There are special substances intended for these purposes - solvents. You need to act very quickly. Prolonged contact of the solvent with the coating is not allowed. To press the tile more tightly to the floor, its surface must be rolled using a heavy roller (metal).
After all installation work is completed, the room must be ventilated. Drying the coating requires at least 36 hours. Then the surface of the cork is thoroughly cleaned of debris and covered with varnish in 3 layers. After 5-7 days the floors can be used.
The advantages of cork as a finishing material are obvious. With proper care, the coating will retain its attractiveness for a long time. A wide range of colors and the possibility of applying prints allow you to create a unique room design. And provided that all technology requirements are met, cork floors can be laid yourself and save a lot of money. Installation of an adhesive coating is more complex in execution. But this type of flooring combines perfectly with parquet and laminate.
Cork began to be used as a floor covering relatively recently, so many questions arise regarding the nuances of laying this material, its advantages and weaknesses. The fairly high price of the new product is another reason that most people planning renovations prefer traditional, familiar floor coverings. So is it worth making cork floors, and what pleasant and unpleasant surprises can await those who have chosen this material?
Cork oak bark has long been used in winemaking to seal bottles, as well as in the production of shoes, fishing gear, medicine, and the automotive industry. Recently, the scope of application of this material has expanded; cork is used as a substrate for flooring and a finishing coating, as well as a cladding material for walls and ceilings.
The bark has a porous structure, which is responsible for its light weight and elasticity. Its pores are sealed, so, unlike most materials with a porous structure, cork does not absorb moisture and is not a favorable environment for the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. Air-filled pores cause a low thermal conductivity coefficient of cork, 0.03-0.04, which is slightly higher than that of air. A sound absorption coefficient of 0.85 makes cork an ideal material for rooms with high sound insulation requirements.
Advantages of cork covering
Cork flooring is an elite coating that has many advantages:
- environmental friendliness. The coating itself is natural, safe for health, and its production does not harm the environment. The bark harvesting technology does not require cutting down trees, and the lifespan of cork oaks reaches 200 years
- Maximum safety for health is due to a number of other factors - cork does not accumulate a static charge and does not attract dust, which makes it an ideal material for people suffering from allergies. It is not susceptible to mold, mildew, does not promote the proliferation of microorganisms, does not attract insects and rodents, and does not emit toxic substances when heated.
- excellent heat and sound insulation;
- elasticity, which determines resistance to compressive deformation;
- comfort of use, orthopedic properties associated with the same elasticity. It is very pleasant and useful to walk barefoot on a soft, springy cork floor. Due to the shock-absorbing properties of cork, the load on the musculoskeletal system is reduced. In addition, the floor is also warm to the touch, like natural wood, and thanks to the high coefficient of friction, it is not at all slippery and injury-proof;
- durability, abrasion resistance. The guaranteed service life of high-quality cork floors is 10 years, but the actual service life is much longer;
- attractive appearance, rich colors, variety of patterns
Sometimes the advantages of cork flooring include ease of installation, but this mainly applies to interlocking type coverings, the so-called cork laminate. The technology for laying the adhesive coating is quite complex.
Cons of cork flooring
Of course, cork flooring also has its disadvantages, and the main one is the high price. It takes 10 years for a bark layer to grow thick enough for industrial purposes, which explains the high cost of the material. Budget flooring (of Asian origin or technical, made on the basis of agglomerate) is inferior in quality to more expensive ones. We will talk about the types of cork coverings, their pros, cons and application features below.
Other disadvantages of cork:
- insufficient tensile strength and resistance to point impacts. Cork floors should be protected from stiletto heels, furniture legs not covered with protective pads, and falling sharp objects.
- relative ease of use and maintenance. Cork floors can be washed with a damp cloth with the addition of neutral or slightly aggressive agents, but the use of caustic alkali and abrasive compounds is unacceptable. Floors need to be regularly cleared of debris - small debris and grains of sand can be pressed into the surface. It is almost impossible to remove marks left by the soles of rubber shoes from the surface of cork.
- Usually a protective coating is applied on top of the cork floor, and this is where problems can arise. If the coefficient of friction increases as a result, floors become excessively rough, unpleasant to walk on barefoot, and shoes and socks wear out quickly. If the coefficient of friction decreases, floors may become slippery, which is dangerous.
Claims that cork is afraid of water are greatly exaggerated. As already mentioned, its pores are sealed and do not communicate with each other. Even if some of the pores are opened during the treatment process, moisture will not penetrate further than the outer layer, and treatment with a protective composition ensures complete waterproofness. It is not recommended to make a cork floor in a bathroom, not because the cork itself will begin to rot, but because moisture can seep under it through small cracks at the joints, but will not evaporate - the material is not hygroscopic.
What are cork floors?
Not everyone knows that the quality of cork is significantly influenced by the region where the cork oak grows. Its homeland is Mediterranean countries with a warm, humid climate.
- Cork from Portugal is traditionally considered the best; it is here that the largest plantations of cork trees are located and well-known concerns for processing raw materials operate. Spanish cork is not inferior in quality to Portuguese cork
- Cork oaks grow not only in Europe, on the western coast of the Mediterranean Sea, but also on its North African coast, these are also quite high-quality products
- Recently, plantations have appeared in China, but the climate here is not ideal for cork oak, which affects the quality of the cork
Important: Chinese-made cork floors are much more affordable in price than classic European ones and have an attractive texture. But the cork itself is looser, and bulky additions of glue to increase density deprive the material of its elasticity, which is one of its main advantages.
In addition to the origin of the raw material, the technology of its processing and the form of the “semi-finished products” from which the floor covering is subsequently made are important:
- the most expensive type of cork covering is veneer, it is a solid sheet material, practically not used in its pure form
- agglomerate - the most inexpensive variety, made from production waste - cork chips - by pressing at high temperature
- combined option - a layer of veneer and a layer of pressed agglomerate, combined in a factory setting
The following types of construction and finishing materials are produced from them:
- technical coating based on agglomerate is produced in the form of rolls, slabs or granules, can be used as a substrate, dry screed
- interlocking (floating) is an analogue of laminate, consists of a combined cork and MDF, has the form of boards measuring 90x18.5 cm
- adhesive, available in the form of rectangular or square slabs of different sizes, is a combination of agglomerate and veneer
Technical cork is an auxiliary material that cannot serve as a finishing coating, but interlocking and adhesive coatings are intended specifically for these purposes. Cork laminate (parquet) has a thickness of up to 12 mm and a multilayer structure:
- base made of MDF (HDF), in which locks are made to connect the boards together
- layer of pressed agglomerate
- a layer of veneer, and in more budget options it may not be cork, but made from different types of wood. In luxury coatings there is a decorative layer of pressed leather
- protective coating (vinyl, acrylic, polyurethane), often applied in several layers
The adhesive cork is thinner, its total thickness is 4-6 mm, the layer of pressed cork on top is covered with a thin layer of cork veneer. Sometimes the veneer is simply sanded, sometimes it is immediately coated with various protective compounds:
- prevarnish (1 layer of varnish, on top of which several more can be applied, but after installation)
- polyurethane varnish
- ceramic varnish
- vinyl film
Important: when choosing a cork covering, you need to pay attention to the composition of the protective layer. Keramolak is good for rooms with high traffic and load on the floor, but it makes the material harder and unpleasant to the touch, so other options are preferable for a bedroom or children's room.
Pros and cons of different types of cork coverings
Both types of cork flooring finishes have strengths and weaknesses.
Castle floor:
- more expensive than glue
- easier to install, less fussy about preparing the base, can be dismantled
- requires the use of a backing (some manufacturers produce laminate with an integrated backing)
- not suitable for damp rooms due to the hygroscopic nature of the wood base
- due to its heterogeneous structure, it is subject to deformation over time and the appearance of cracks at the joints (cork and MDF have different coefficients of linear expansion)
Adhesive:
- somewhat cheaper, but requires the use of expensive high-quality water-soluble glue, you cannot save on this
- requires skill from the installer; DIY installation is problematic
- elastic, easy to cut, ideal for rooms with complex geometry and curved surfaces
- extremely fastidious in preparing the base; grains of sand and small pebbles that have not been removed will make the owner feel like a princess and a pea
- forms a monolithic coating that is resistant to moisture and not subject to temperature deformation
- completely natural material
- some collections are intended for artistic installation, creating panels, mosaic floors, but this is already aerobatics, and such work is very highly valued
Bottom line
Cork floors have many advantages, but the main disadvantage is their high cost. When choosing a material, you need to take into account the characteristics of the room where it will be installed, and pay special attention to the protective layer. And remember that luxury coating requires delicate handling.
And in this article we will consider all aspects, analyze cork floors into “chips”, identify the pros and cons, and also show you a photo of such a coating in the interior and give you an approximate price.
What is cork flooring and what kind of coating can it be compared to?
Cork flooring can be compared to OSB board, only thinner and more flexible. This covering is made of cork chips, but it is still wood, albeit a rather unusual one.
There is no way to compare it with laminate and linoleum.
But also with wood, because wood is actually a natural covering, but cork flooring is just pressed wood chips with glue. And the base of the cork floor is the same as that of the laminate.
Therefore, there is no point in dreaming that it “breathes”. And what's the difference, really? Before laying any covering, the screed is now coated with two layers of primer. And even though the fabric of the bed, the floor will still not be able to breathe. And he doesn’t need to breathe, there are windows for that...
What are the benefits of cork flooring in the kitchen?
So, where to start our debriefing? Perhaps – from the advantages of this coating. We draw your attention to the fact that we will focus on how the cork floor “behaves” in the kitchen.
1st plus – Waterproof
Many people mistakenly believe that cork flooring is terribly afraid of water because it is porous. But, it's quite the opposite. Water is not particularly dangerous for a cork floor, since the wood itself from which the covering is made absorbs only 20% of 100% of spilled water. Remember the same wine corks: are they completely saturated with liquid? And this despite the fact that they were in a humid environment for a very long time.
That is, if you spill a cup of hot tea on a cork floor, the puddle will remain on the surface for a very long time. It will not be absorbed anywhere, but rather will simply disappear if you don’t wipe it off.
Waterproof kitchen flooring is a big advantage. For example, the same tree is afraid of moisture, which means you can’t wash it too often, and you can’t forget about spilled cups of tea either. But tea is mere nonsense compared to the flood from above...
Cork flooring, in this regard, “behaves” just fine. Yes, it may swell for a moment, but after a month it dries completely and regains its original shape. As you can see, these facts go against the popular belief that cork is best suited for dry areas in an apartment.
2nd plus – Warmth and softness
Even a wooden floor is not as pleasant to walk on as a cork floor. In this regard, nothing can compare with it: it’s like velvet, there’s no other way to put it. And, if you like to walk around the house barefoot, this is what you need.
In addition, it is warm to the touch. Even on cold days, cork flooring is warm, even warmer than wood. And this means, if you have small children who crawl along the floor, then cork covering for them is the best that you can come up with.
3rd plus – Soundproofing properties
Cork flooring perfectly dampens sound. If you have a herd of restless children running around the house, then lay a floor like this and the neighbors will be very happy. Yes, and you too. You can’t hear the stomping or roaring in the house at all... Beauty.
But keep in mind that it dampens impact noise. If you want to use the floor to protect yourself from the screaming tape recorder of your neighbor below, then leave this idea. Music is vibration and your cork floor will vibrate beautifully along with the wall.
4th plus – Resistance to fungal attack
Managers who describe the benefits and wonderful properties of cork floors always mention resistance to fungus. Perhaps this is actually an undeniable plus. But in our memory, there is not a single floor covering that suffered from fungus.
Maybe you know such cases? Write in the comments, we are interested in your opinion...
In general, how much water do you need to pour in order for fungus to form on the floor? And, if it does form (for example, from a micro-leak in pipes), then it will not affect the floor covering, but the entire screed! Both concrete and plaster...
You understand that in this case, the cork floor will not save you. So what if it remains? Tearing it down and re-laying it is almost impossible, contrary to the assurances of the sellers. They say that you can re-tile it five times, nothing will happen to the locks. It will be very possible, it has been checked more than once.
5th plus – Saving dishes
If you often drop cups on the floor, buy a cork floor! This is the absolute truth, dishes practically do not break on it. And given the current prices for plates and other glass utensils, this is a big plus and savings in the future.
Of course, the thinnest glass goblet will burst. But an ordinary plate and cup will survive.
6th plus – Low static
They say that dust practically does not stick to cork floors. And it is true. It is non-static, therefore there is almost no dust on it. Is this a plus? We don't know. After all, if there is no dust on the floor, then there is dust on other interior items. And, frankly, it’s much easier to wipe dust off the floor with a light mop than to wipe it off lighting fixtures and decorative elements...
And you can’t see the dust on the cork floor, it’s colorful! But we couldn’t help but add this point to the plus list. If managers say plus, it means plus.
7th plus – Dust and crumbs are almost invisible on it
This is us continuing the previous paragraph. Cork flooring is a lazy person's dream. If the same laminate instantly reveals your laziness, then cork does not.
Crumbs and other small debris are not visible on it. Also, it is much easier to wash than other coatings: there are no streaks on it, which means you don’t have to spend money on “Mr. Proper” and wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth (like glossy ceramic tiles, for example, or laminate).
8th plus - It doesn't slip
This point is quite controversial. There is a difference between cork and cork. Or rather, cork floor covering. Some floors do not slip, and some - very much so, because they are covered with three layers of slippery varnish. That is why the reviews on the Internet are different.
By the way, about non-slip. This medal has a reverse side. If the floor really does not slip at all, then this is fraught with frayed socks, torn nylon tights and burns on the knees of children when they brake on it while running... Children are like that, yes. They manage to make their elbows bleed even on carpet, let alone on traffic jams.
What are the disadvantages of cork flooring in the kitchen?
Now let's move on to the most important point - the cons. If you don't take them into account, it will be very annoying...
1st minus – Questionable appearance
Yes, cork floors don't look very good, to put it mildly. Although, maybe you have a different taste and don’t agree with us. But we still think that this floor looks extremely sparse and drab.
There is absolutely no beauty in it. There is no special naturalness or aura in it either.
Although, now things are much better with the design of cork floors than just five years ago. You can find wood-like colors, and something else more interesting than “no” bits of cork.
2nd minus – Price
Cork flooring costs twice as much as laminate flooring. Perhaps this is not a minus, of course. After all, cork is better than laminate and, therefore, it is quite fair that it is more expensive.
But on the other hand, cork is quite a bit cheaper than a good deck board, which is just better than cork. Therefore, think about whether the game is worth the candle.
3rd minus – The need to perfectly level the base of the floor
If there are changes on the floor, your cork floors will come to an end very soon. They will squash, tear and crumble. The screed should be not just perfect, but super-ideal.
You are unlikely to build one yourself and will need to hire craftsmen. On the other hand, there is no big difference in price between the quality of screeds, and the ideal one is needed not only for cork, but also for linoleum, laminate...
4th minus – Burnout
This is a significant minus. If your kitchen is located on the sunny side, the cork floor will fade very quickly. And the difference between the window area and the rest of the room will be simply colossal.
Making sure that direct sunlight does not enter the room is an unnecessary fuss that you will very soon forget about. And as soon as you forget, the floor will slowly and surely burn out.
5th minus – Difficulty in care
Cork flooring is porous, which means it won’t be so easy to clean it of anything colored. For example, if you spilled cherry juice, you will have to get down on your knees and thoroughly scrub the stain, whereas you can run a mop over ceramic tiles and voila...
Also, over time, these micro-slits become clogged with dirt. And the cork floor, periodically, must be thoroughly washed with a brush and hands, otherwise it will look stale and gray.
6th disadvantage – Vulnerability to dents and scratches
This aspect is also controversial and it all depends on the quality of the floor. Some floors are not afraid of pressing and there are no dents left on them even from heavy furniture. And other floors are more delicate (read: cheap) and you will have to put pads on the legs of the table and chairs.
Of course, walking in heels around the kitchen is out of the question. But on the other hand, there’s no point in splashing around the house with your shoes on. Get used to taking off your shoes in the hallway.
7 minus – inability to wash the paint
Some interesting things happen to paint that gets onto a cork floor. For example, we cannot explain this miracle, but it exists.
If hair dye gets on a cork floor, it is not immediately wiped off with anything.
Well, just nothing, it is absorbed tightly. But a month, two, three passes and the stain begins to gradually disappear and, in the end, is simply neutralized. But for the entire two or three months you admire a dark spot that cannot be gotten rid of.
Also, you will not be able to wash away drops of brilliant green, iodine, paint for Easter eggs, inscriptions with a marker...
8th minus – Inability to get rid of greasy stains
But cork floor grease does not self-destruct, unlike paint. If you don't wipe off the grease often, it will be absorbed and you will never get rid of it.
Of course, you can sand the cork and open it with new varnish. But this is tedious and time-consuming, and the veneer that covers the floor is quite thin and such manipulations have a limit.
About the environmental friendliness of cork flooring
Many people choose cork flooring precisely because of this advantage. It seems to be so environmentally friendly and safe that it’s just a nightmare. But in reality, this is nonsense.
Cork flooring is no better than laminate or linoleum. But a low-quality cork floor is even worse, since the glue used to press it can release harmful substances into the air for a very long time.
Then, the cork floor must be varnished. Is the varnish eco-friendly? And what does the cork have to do with it if you have no contact with it? You breathe fumes from varnish and glue.
Moreover, cork floor base- either the same vinyl or PVC. The layer of cork coating is 2-6 mm (which is very rare, usually 2-3).
Judge for yourself, where does the Mediterranean come from so many forests to provide the whole world with pure cork floors? This is just unreal. Millimeters of this coating go on the veneer, millimeters. And the rest is the most ordinary materials.
Therefore, if your goal is environmental friendliness and complete hypoallergenicity, then laminate is better. It certainly doesn't evaporate anything.
It’s also worth mentioning here shock-absorbing properties, about which sellers sing. It seems like walking on a cork floor is so beneficial for the spine, since you are almost walking on rubber, shock-absorbing, shock-absorbing... This is not true.
Cork flooring is as hard as laminate flooring.
And it doesn’t matter which manufacturer produces this product: there is no cork floor made from just cork.
Is it possible to lay cork flooring on a “warm” floor?
There is a rumor circulating online that there is no reason to install electric heating under a cork floor, since the cork simply will not let it through. This is nonsense.
Try placing a piece of cork flooring on the radiator and you will understand everything. It conducts heat well. Another question is that there is no particular point in heating it, since it itself is quite warm. Unless you removed the radiators and decided to install underfloor heating instead, then you can do this.
Which cork floor is best for the kitchen?
There are two types of cork flooring:
- Rolled (adhesive), which is spread like linoleum and glued directly to the screed;
- Tile (lock), which is laid, like laminate, on locks.
For the kitchen it is better to take the first option, since it has no gaps.
Over time, the cracks swell from moisture and become clogged with debris... This is not very practical for such a room, as you understand. In general, there are more types of cork flooring, but now there is no point in sorting them out, we are talking about design.
Differences between cork flooring and other popular coatings
Our review will be incomplete without comparison with other types of flooring. This is the easiest way to understand whether there is a reason to buy a cork floor. Let's go.
Which is better: cork or ceramic tiles
Durability: ceramic tiles last a long time if you don’t drop a cast iron casserole on it... But you can drop anything on the cork, even knives. There are no particularly visible scratches and no holes from punctures by something thin either.
As for which coating wears out faster - cork, of course. But the protective varnish on it wears off and can simply be renewed. But the cork tends to crumble from impacts and from being pressed.
In a word, nothing concrete can be said. If you don't drop the tracks, the tiles are more reliable. And it’s even safer to cover the kitchen with asphalt, this will definitely last forever.
Easy to care for: It’s much easier to care for tiles, it’s not even discussed.
Simplicity of flooring: under the “cork” you need to perfectly align the base. But the tiles need to be watered perfectly. If you leave air gaps in the glue or lay the tiles unevenly, they will begin to lag and crack in those places where the “play” has formed. Both leveling and laying are expensive. Therefore, the score here is 1:1.
Warmth: well, here you understand everything yourself. Of course - a traffic jam.
Which is better: cork flooring or linoleum
Durability: cork is much more durable in use, whatever one may say. Although, if you take linoleum for industrial purposes, it will outlive you. But the colors of this linoleum are terrible, so we are talking about the household version. But it’s soft, it tears, wears out, and after 10 years it looks like what the hell.
After ten years, cork floors can be refinished with fresh varnish and they will still serve. Due to the fact that they are so pockmarked, the damage on them is not particularly visible.
Easy to care for: It is easier to care for linoleum, since it is completely smooth. But cork is porous and it is necessary to thoroughly wash away the dirt that gets stuck in the microcracks.
Simplicity of flooring: Both coatings require a flat surface. If you spread linoleum on an uneven floor, it will quickly wear off and look disgusting. Every crumb and hole is visible under the linoleum.
Warmth: Both coatings are warm, but walking on the latter is 10 times more pleasant. Linoleum feels like oilcloth to the touch, and cork feels like wood.
Which is better: cork or laminate?
Durability: Laminate and cork last about the same. But laminate tends to swell at the joints, which causes its appearance to deteriorate. Cork, especially adhesive one, looks much better.
Easy to care for: laminate is easier to clean, since there are no pores in which dirt gets clogged. But you have to wipe it dry after washing, since the stains are too visible.
Simplicity of flooring: It’s easy to lay both. The main thing is to prepare the surface well, and installation is the next step.
Warmth: Both of these floorings are warm, but laminate is not as pleasant to the touch. Plus, it's very noisy.
Which is better: wooden flooring or cork flooring?
Durability: wood is much more durable, especially if we are talking not about parquet, but about deck boards. And it’s easier to restore a wooden floor than a cork-veneered floor.
Easy to care for: caring for wood is easier, despite the fact that it periodically needs to be rubbed with mastic.
Simplicity of flooring: there is no need to level the floor to match the wood and this is a plus. But it needs to be laid perfectly evenly on the joists and this is a minus: professionals are needed here.
Warmth: These are equally warm coatings. But judging by the reviews of the owners, the feeling of a cork floor is that it is warmer.
Conclusion: We told you everything and even more about cork floors, their pros and cons, showed photos and indicated the approximate price per 1 square meter. Now think for yourself, decide for yourself what is better to choose when doing repairs.